MP invites local business to Parliament for innovation showcase

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has welcomed local business Rocoil to Parliament to talk to the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee, of which he is a member. The visit to Parliament for Rocoil came after Tom visited their site in Harrogate.

During the visit, Julie, who works for Rocoil, talked about their business and what they do, and how that has been hindered recently due to Brexit. Their business specialises in producing special coils, known as Rogowski coils, that can conduct electricity. They have produced innovative machines that can accurately create unique and specialised designs. 

The wires can be used to measure currents, and Rocoil are world renowned for their coils. They are used in such technology as nuclear fusion. The measurements from the coils are used to ensure maximum efficiency. Julie talked about the work they do in depth, to give the Committee a good idea of the innovating work that they do. 

She also talked about the impact that Brexit has had on the business, particularly when it comes to trading with Europe, and the frustrations expressed by the Rocoil’s European customers, who are unable to find the products they need from anywhere else. Also raised was the uncertainty following changes to inheritance tax, as Rocoil is a family-owned business. 

Commenting, Tom said:

“Rocoil are a fantastic local business doing invaluable work that is respected around the world. It was an honour to welcome them to Parliament today. This is what being an MP is all about: banging the drum for our local businesses, and everything that is going on in the constituency, and bringing their issues – and recognition of their work – to Parliament. 

“It’s important that the issues faced by business are raised in Parliament. If we want the economy to thrive we need to ensure that we provide the right conditions to allow businesses like Rocoil to flourish. 

“Thank you to Julie for coming down to Parliament, and to the team at Rocoil who facilitated my visit to their site. It’s so important to get the fantastic work of local businesses out there into the world, raising awareness and helping our businesses flourish.”

ENDS